Meredith's family affair

Loan ranger James Meredith has sent out the biggest hint yet that he might be willing to make his AFC Telford United move permanent – if he gets the go-ahead from his estranged family.

The left-back has been a key component in the Bucks' charge up Blue Square North and last week extended his loan deal from Shrewsbury Town until January 13.

Telford will have to increase the deal until the end of the season if they are to keep hold of him beyond that point – or agree a permanent move.

"I've had a word with the management about what will happen afterwards and we're still discussing things, but there is always a chance that the move could become permanent," said 20-year-old Meredith.

"For now I just have to concentrate on not losing a game. If another offer came in January or another time then I would have to consider whether or not I'd be likely to be playing, because that is my main concern at the moment."

Aussie Meredith, who has made14 first team appearances for the Bucks, is still training full time with Town but would be willing to consider dropping down a level for the benefit of his career.

"Dropping down to non-League football wouldn't worry me because the most important thing is that I am playing," he added. "What would worry me is my family in Australia missing me."

Meanwhile, Bucks assistant manager Larry Chambers has declared himself pleased with United's FA Trophy second round draw – a home tie against either Hayes and Yeading or Grays on January 10.

"When you get to this stage of the competition all the sides left are decent so all you can hope for is a home draw," he said.

"We'll either be up against a team playing on the same level as us (Hayes in the Conference South) or a team in the lower reaches of the Conference Premier (Grays), so we're generally pleased."

By SEAN WOZENCROFT